Independent Spending, Week by Week

Since the start of the presidential campaign, independent groups have spent at least $524 million on television advertisements and other efforts asking voters to elect or defeat candidates. The most active groups have been "super PACs," which can raise unlimited money from individuals, corporations and labor unions. Although these groups cannot legally be tied to a candidate, several of the most-active ones are run or advised by former associates or campaign staff; those are noted below with the picture of the candidate.

Last update: about 2 hours ago

Jan. 30 to Feb. 5, 2012

1

Republican

Mitt Romney

Super PAC

Created by former aides to Mitt Romney, this super PAC has turned its attention to criticizing President Obama and promoting Mr. Romney's campaign.

Main activity: Attacking Newt Gingrich(91%)

Nov.

Dec.

Jan.

$564,074

91% spent on attack ads

64% of all Rep. spending

2

Republican

Rick Santorum

Super PAC

Red White and Blue Fund

This committee, founded by a former Iowa adviser to former Senator Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania, is one of two super PACs supporting his candidacy.

Main activity: Supporting Rick Santorum(100%)

Nov.

Dec.

Jan.

$243,112

0% spent on attack ads

28% of all Rep. spending

3

Republican

Newt Gingrich

Super PAC

Winning Our Future

This super PAC was created by Becky Burkett, the former chief development officer for American Solutions, a PAC that Newt Gingrich founded. Since the reporting period ended, the super PAC has reportedly also received at least $10 million from a wealthy casino owner, Sheldon Adelson, and his wife.